I am writing today to announce the closure of the New Mexico Independent. After three and a half years of operation in New Mexico, the board of the American Independent News Network, has decided to shift publication of its news…
While environmental activists played their part yesterday during demonstrations at the capitol building, going so far as to dress up as solar panels and to sing the tune of “You Are My Sunshine,” their counterparts, the anti-cap-and-trade contingency who has…
Roughly one quarter of University of New Mexico students are unimpressed with the state’s flagship public school, according to a survey that questioned college students about their higher education experiences.
Gov. Bill Richardson on Wednesday cheered this week’s advisory opinion by a federal agency to ban what New Mexico considers the establishment of an illegal casino in southern New Mexico.
The acting general counsel to the National Indian Gaming Commission issued an opinion Monday that says the Oklahoma-based Fort Sill Apaches cannot legally operate a casino on its Southern New Mexico trust land.
"We conclude the Tribe may not lawfully conduct gaming on the proposed site," the 30-page opinion said.
“This federal decision is clear and unambiguous – and it is a victory for the people of New Mexico who are opposed to an expansion of gaming beyond what has already been negotiated,” Richardson said in a press release. “The Fort Sill Apaches will violate federal law if they move forward with an illegal casino in Southern New Mexico.
“I have directed the State Police and the Gaming Control Board to remain vigilant and block access if they attempt to open a casino.”
Commission spokesman Shawn Pensoneau said if the Fort Sill Apaches decide to ignore the opinion then further action would be taken.
The Oklahoma tribe tried earlier this year to open a casino in Akela Flats, which led to a showdown between state police and the tribe.
